The Kennel Club Charitable Trust received a major boost in its aim to help ‘make a difference for dogs’ when it was handed a cheque for £285,516 from PRO Dogs, at Discover Dogs at London’s Earls Court on Saturday 12th November.

The huge donation was made after the PRO Dogs National Charity decided to disband after almost thirty years of working for the ‘promotion of dogs’, with the Kennel Club Charitable Trust seen as the natural successor to continue its work.

The Kennel Club Charitable Trust provides grants to organisations which promote the advancement of science and research into canine diseases, the quality of life of humans whose dogs act as therapeutic and physical aids, and the relief of dogs in need of care and attention.

The Trust was formed in 1987 and has distributed funds totalling around £2million since its inception, with almost £300,000 awarded in grants last year alone.

Mike Townsend, Chairman of the Kennel Club Charitable Trust, said "We are extremely grateful for this most generous donation from PRO Dogs, and will use the funds appropriately to help make a difference for dogs. The Kennel Club Charitable Trust has long admired the work done by PRO Dogs and looks forward to continuing its traditions."

PRO Dogs was founded in 1976 by Lesley Scott-Ordish, and was aimed at countering bad publicity for dogs in the media and ensuring that the role of companion animals is understood in society and appreciated for the benefits they are able to give people.

Bill Edmond, Director of PRO Dogs, said "When the decision to wind up PRO Dogs was made last year, we were keen to ensure that our remaining funds were donated to an organisation that had the same vision that Lesley Scott-Ordish had when we were founded in 1976. We feel that the Kennel Club Charitable Trust can continue this vital role in the promotion of dogs, and are delighted to be able to make this donation."